Science Confirms The Obvious: Boring Lectures Don't Work (Duh!)

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If you aren't doing well in your lecture-based classes, science says you might not be to blame. A new study finds that lecturing is a very ineffective form of teaching [via Science magazine].

Students are 1.5 times more likely to fail a class in which the professor stands, drones, and/or PowerPoints than a class that includes "active teaching" techniques that switch up every 10 minutes or so. Active teaching can be "asking students to answer questions by using handheld clickers, calling on individuals or groups randomly, or having students clarify concepts to each other and reach a consensus on an issue."

But don't expect lecture-style classes to go away anytime soon. Science quotes Noah Finkelstein, a professor at the STEM Learning Center at University of Colorado, Boulder: "There are still times when lectures will be needed, but the traditional mode of stand-and-deliver is being demonstrated as less effective at promoting student learning and preparing future teachers."

No, texting does not count as interactive. Nice try.

What types of classes do you learn best in? Share in the comments below!